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Nail Fungus or Melanoma, How Can You Tell the Difference?

asked 7 months ago by fungiornot
Latest answer by Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD
Question viewed 232 times
Tags: fungal infection, melanoma

I saw my big toe nail today during a pedicure and noticed that part of it is blackish greenish in color. I have a history of melanoma insitu and wonder if I am over reacting to simple nail fungus or could this be Acral lentiginous melanoma?

3 answers to Nail Fungus or Melanoma, How Can You Tell the Difference?

+2

Check It Out

I am in full agreement with my dermatology colleagues. Most sub-ungual melanomas arise on the first toenail (the great toe). If you are Caucasian this is particularly worrisome, especially in someone with a history of a melanoma-in-situ. While there are some signs that help us differentiate a benign condition such as a fungus from melanoma ( a straight border, even pigment throughout , lack of Hutchinson sign, which is the creeping of pigment onto the skin... more
Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

Virginia Beach Dermatologist
+2

Fungus vs. Melanoma

I agree with Dr. George completely. Sounds fungal and /or bacterial but need to get it checked anyway. Does not sound like you need panic.
Jo Herzog, MD

Birmingham Dermatologist
+2

Melanoma vs. Fungus in the nail

With your history of melanoma in situ I would recommend you see a dermatologist to ensure that this is not a melanoma, however there are some clinical cues that may be helpful. Typically melanomas will show pigment not only within the nail, but also around the nail bed. This is called Hutchinson's sign. The greenish color you describe sounds like it could be a bacterial infection caused by Pseduomonas, but since melanoma doesn't always follow the textbooks it is still... more
Rosalyn George, MD

Wilmington Dermatologic Surgeon

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